Exact date snow is set to return as freezing weather grips the UK
The UK is bracing for a return of snow this weekend as a bitter cold snap threatens to take over the nation. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice, which will be in effect from Saturday into Sunday, impacting parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England.
Experts are warning of plummeting temperatures, with some areas expected to experience lows well below freezing. Snow is anticipated to be heaviest in higher-altitude areas, but even lower regions could also see snowfall this weekend, too - with some areas even expected to see up to 20cm of snow. That also means that travel disruptions are likely, as icy roads and poor visibility could create potentially dangerous conditions for drivers.
The Met Office says: “We’re seeing a continuation of unsettled weather, with a cold snap moving in from the north. This will bring snow to many areas, especially over higher ground. The public should be prepared for travel delays and difficult conditions, particularly in regions under the yellow warning.”
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The incoming snow isn’t the only weather to be aware of soon, either. On top of the snow, strong winds are also forecast. This combination means that power cuts are also possible, as the combination of snow and wind may cause damage to important structures for homes and businesses. Residents in affected areas are being urged to check local forecasts and plan accordingly.
The Met Office has issued a 'yellow' cold weather alert for Saturday and Sunday, urging people to take steps to protect themselves and vulnerable members of their communities, Heart reports.
Met Office spokesperson Andrea Bishop said: "A deep area of low pressure is expected to bring a spell of prolonged and, at times, heavy rainfall across a large part of the UK this weekend.
She added: "Fifty to 75mm of rain is expected to fall fairly widely during this time with a chance that some places over Dartmoor could see 100-125mm."
People in affected areas are advised to keep homes heated to at least 18°C, stocking up on essentials like food and medicine, and wearing lots of layers of clothing to keep warm.
Public transport services may also face disruptions, with delays and cancellations expected. Commuters are advised to check for updates and plan their journeys in advance.
This sudden shift to wintry conditions comes after an unusually mild autumn, with Arctic air pushing south, which brings colder temperatures and snow.
It comes after the Met Office issued a disruption warning just this week, forecasting that some places in the UK are set to get 20cm of snow.